Finding your way in the Louvre, the largest museum in the world, with the largest collection of artworks, an enormous building where it’s easy to get lost. The Louvre is world-famous and is definitely worth a visit. Once inside this vast cultural treasure trove, visitors are often overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the museum and the plethora of masterpieces it houses. From iconic works like the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa to lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered, the Louvre offers an unparalleled journey through the annals of art history.
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But fear not, for we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the labyrinthine halls of the Louvre with ease. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned art enthusiast, these tips will ensure that your experience at the Louvre is nothing short of extraordinary.
But how does one navigate through this treasure trove of art? Are there aids to help visitors decide what to explore and what to skip? Fortunately, the Louvre has taken significant steps to simplify the visitor experience.
Here are your options:
Guided Tours with Museum Guides
Embark on an introductory journey lasting 1.5 hours. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll encounter the iconic masterpieces and receive enlightening insights (available in English or French). From the Venus de Milo to the Mona Lisa, the Raft of the Medusa to the Wedding at Cana, you’ll discover the highlights. Tours are available daily (except Tuesdays) at 11:30 am and 2:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit. Meet under the Pyramid at ‘Acceuil des groupes’. Cost: 12 euros + museum entrance fee.
Finding your way in the Louvre: Thematic Routes
Explore over 20 thematic routes, each centered around a specific topic. These curated paths showcase artworks from distinct periods, art movements, or themes. Whether it’s ‘Living in the Louvre,’ ‘the Da Vinci Code,’ or ‘Italian Renaissance Art,’ there’s something for every interest. Some routes are tailored for children. Download and print the routes for free in English or French from the website and embark on a self-guided journey
3D Audio Guide
Immerse yourself in the Louvre’s wonders with the 3D audio guide. Explore the museum independently while listening to captivating narratives about its architecture and masterpieces. Experience the new Audio Guide on Nintendo 3DS XL, featuring curated tours like the Masterpieces tour or delve into the museum’s depths with information on over 700 artworks. With a built-in GPS system, you’ll always know your location and where to venture next. Rent the guide for 5 euros at the ticket desk, ticket machines, or entrances at the Pyramid, Denon, Sully, and Richelieu.
Louvre Audio Guide App
Dive into the Louvre’s wealth of knowledge with the Louvre Audio Guide App. This immersive app offers three hours of audio commentary, guiding you through the museum’s highlights or allowing you to chart your own course. Select from 40 marked artworks on a map, each offering detailed insights. The interactive map tracks your location and provides comprehensive information about the Louvre. Available for iPhone and Android devices, the app costs 1.99 euros for iPhone and 1.79 euros for Android, with language options including English, French, and German.